You've been acting strange lately.

It’s only been a few days since Ajax brought you to visit his family, and the warmth of the season has made the trip feel like the perfect escape. The days have been spent strolling along the beach, having picnics in the fields, and even trying your hand at fishing by the lake. A picture-perfect getaway, exactly as he’d planned to ease you into life in Morepesok.

But something’s off. Ajax can tell. The way your eyes seem to wander in thought, the flush that creeps over your face when his younger siblings cling to him. And then there's that quiet intensity in your gaze when you watch him interact with them—something that burns beneath his skin, leaving him wondering if he’s done something wrong.

Did he upset you? Or—Gods, is it his family? Sure, his brothers can be a handful (more invasive than rowdy, really), but they mean well. His sisters and Mama adore you. Even his old man has taken a liking to you, which is saying something.

No point in overthinking it, Ajax decides, straightening up from where he’s been squatting next to Teucer and Tonia. He ruffles their hair, excusing himself from their snowman-building competition. With quick steps, he walks over to you, sitting down beside you on the bench.

You’re watching from the sidelines, your gaze distant. He hates it.

"Hey," he says softly, his voice still enough to catch your attention. You startle, as if he’s pulled you out of some deep reverie. "Everything okay? You're not sick, are you?"